Gynecomastia or enlarged male breasts is a commonly seen problem in men at any age during their lifetime. The enlarged breasts affect not only a man’s looks and self-esteem but can also lead to pain and physical discomfort. Due to the embarrassment associated with it, the discussion of gynecomastia problem can often times be a little uncomfortable for men and this has led to a lot of misinformation about it. With this blog, we aim to debunk some of the myths and discuss the facts about gynecomastia treatment in Vadodara city where we are located, as well as to educate patients seeking male breast reduction surgery in Vadodara, Gujarat.

Myth: Only Women Can Have Breast Development

Gynecomastia occurs when excess breast tissue starts developing in a man. The term comes from the Greek word meaning “women-like breasts.” Many times, people also call gynecomastia “man boobs.” Thus, men too can, and do develop breast growth.

Myth: Gynecomastia Is Just Excess Chest Fat

One common myth about gynecomastia is that only obese men develop it due to excess fat. A man who is not over-weight can also experience gynecomastia even though he does not have a lot of extra fat. Although there are reports where excess chest fat can make a man’s breasts look prominent, fat alone is not the cause of the problem. Gynecomastia occurs when the actual breast gland of a male starts developing, and is not just a little fat in the chest region.

Myth: Gynecomastia Is Just Genetic

Some of the causes of gynecomastia can be:

• Gynecomastia is most often related to hormonal imbalances.
• Certain prescription medications can also cause gynecomastia, such as medicines taken for an enlarged prostate, anti-depressants, some antibiotics, heart medications, amphetamines, steroids etc.
• Excessive alcohol consumption. A man who drinks a lot can be causing damage to his liver. Liver damage can interfere with its ability convert hormones from one form to another, leading to the development of breast tissue.
• Herbal products such as the use of lavender oil.
• Endocrine problems in a man can also lead to the development of breast tissue, such as an underactive pituitary gland, a hyperactive thyroid, kidney disease, etc.
• Weight gain and obesity.

Myth: Chest Exercises Will Cure Gynecomastia

There is a misconception that working out and toning the chest muscles and increasing the amount of your exercise will help cure gynecomastia. But actually since gynecomastia is the development of breast tissue, there is no way to burn off tissue. Even if the enlarged breasts were only due to fat, there is no way to achieve a “spot reduction” of the chest area meaning that you cannot perform exercises and see a reduction in fat only in a specific part of the body.

Fact: Hormones Have A Role

The real reason behind gynecomastia is an imbalance of hormones. Changes to the estrogen and testosterone levels can lead to development of breast tissue. Young men with gynecomastia are evaluated for hormonal imbalance as this is one of the most common causes of this condition. A man is more likely to develop breast tissue when testosterone in his body decreases and the amount of estrogen increases. Although associated as a female hormone, all males have a small amount of estrogen in their bodies. When estrogen levels rise, problems such as male breast growth can develop.

Fact: Male Breast Reduction Surgery Is a Good Option

Gynecomastia sometime resolves on its own and no surgery may be needed. Teenage gynecomastia often resolves without treatment in adulthood. Gynecomastia caused by medical conditions or medications, often resolves by treating the condition or adjusting the medication. However, if the problem persists and you are unhappy with the appearance of your chest, surgical treatment known as male breast reduction surgery is available and is the best and permanent solution for curing gynecomastia.

Fact: It Is Easy To Treat Gynecomastia

You don’t have to endure a lifetime of embarrassment with gynecomastia. It is very treatable and gives excellent results. If you’ve been unable to resolve your condition with lifestyle, diet, and medical changes, come see us if you are in Vadodara. Male breast reduction surgery can remove your excess breast tissue and restore a flat appearance to your chest. We perform liposuction and/or surgical excision to remove the excess breast tissue. Dr. Sachin Shah is a renowned expert plastic surgeon for gynecomastia surgery and we are located in Vadodara.

Worried about excess male breast tissue? Contact us about gynecomastia treatment today.